This is a collection of the favourite dishes and family memories of one of the world's most-loved cookery writers. Renowned as a leading authority on Asian cooking, Charmaine in fact has an interest and expertise in the food of many other cultures. This eclectic collection of recipes reflects the personal influences in Charmaine's life - her childhood in Sri Lanka; her Dutch, Irish, Anglo-Indian, French and Indonesian forebears; her Jewish husband, a professional jazz musician with strong culinary traditions in his own family; and her varied roles and life in Australia. Here are Charmaine's heirloom recipes transcribed from treasured hand-written cookbooks - everyday favourites and delicious dishes for celebrations. Try Grandmother Julia Catherine's prize-winning fruit jellies or Aunt Moonies' Chocolate Velvet Cake; squeeze lemon juice over crispy crepes or bake scrumptious muffins for special afternoon teas; turn to warming soups and soothing broths on wintry days; make time for slow-cooked stews, or whip up quick-and-easy pasta and Asian noodle dishes.
